Natural Solutions for Intestinal Worms: Diet, Supplements & Home Remedies

The thought of internal worms or parasites can be unnerving, yet these infections are more common than many realize. Tapeworms, roundworms, and other parasitic organisms can infest the human intestinal tract through contaminated water, poor hygiene, undercooked food, or contact with infected pets.

These microscopic invaders vary in size and type, often leading to symptoms like diarrhea, unexplained weight loss, abdominal cramping, anal itching, and nutrient deficiencies. Because these symptoms can mimic other conditions, diagnosing parasitic worms in humans often presents a challenge.

Fortunately, numerous natural remedies for worms exist to help cleanse your body. Many parasite cleanse diets incorporate foods known to kill worms, such as garlic, onions, and papaya seeds. Additionally, supplements containing ingredients like clove oil, oregano oil, or wormwood can effectively help eliminate worms and parasites from the gut.

This article will guide you through the most effective natural approaches to eliminate tapeworms and other parasitic worms. First, let's understand more about these tiny creatures and the potential health issues they can cause.

Understanding Common Intestinal Parasites in Humans

Here are the prevalent types of intestinal worms and single-celled parasites found in the human body:

• Tapeworms: These flatworms are a common parasitic infection, particularly in developing countries. They can grow up to 30 feet (9 m) long in humans! (1) Infections are contracted from eating undercooked food or food prepared by an infected person. Common types include Taenia solium (from pork), Taenia saginata (from beef), and Diphyllobothrium latum (from seafood). Symptoms often include digestive upset and weight loss. (2)
• Roundworms (Ascaris): A widespread roundworm, Ascaris, can reach 35 cm in size and live for up to 2 years. (3) Eggs are typically ingested through contaminated food. They feed on nutrients in your digestive system, potentially leading to vitamin and nutrient deficiencies. These worms are usually detected in feces.
• Whipworms (Trichuris trichiura): Approximately 4 cm long, whipworms infect the human intestines. (4) Infection occurs when whipworm eggs from soil are transferred to the mouth, often by consuming unwashed or improperly cooked fruits and vegetables, or inadequate handwashing after handling soil. Symptoms include painful bowel movements with mucus, water, and blood.
• Hookworms: Found in soil, hookworms frequently affect individuals who walk barefoot, especially in developing countries or areas where animals reside. (5) Hookworm infections can cause an itchy rash along with digestive and respiratory issues. Common types are Ancylostoma duodenale and Necator americanus.
• Threadworms: These tiny parasitic worms (2 mm to 13 mm long) live in the human gut. (6) A hallmark symptom is an itchy anus. Re-infestation can occur if threadworm eggs transfer from scratching to under fingernails and then to the mouth. Successful eradication requires anti-parasitic treatment and strict hygiene practices.
• Pinworms (Enterobius vermicularis): According to the Mayo Clinic, pinworm infections are the most common parasitic infections in the U.S. (7) Pinworms grow to about 13 mm and can lay thousands of eggs around the anus while you sleep. Common modes of transmission include consuming contaminated food or drink, or inadequate handwashing. Eggs can spread via bed linen, toilet seats, and toys.
• Parasites (Protozoa): The CDC defines protozoa as single-celled organisms that can infect a person through contact with contaminated food or water. (8) Giardia is a common waterborne parasite, often found in streams, lakes, and swimming pools. Giardia infections can cause abdominal cramping, nausea, and watery diarrhea, potentially lasting up to 6 weeks. (9)

How Humans Contract Parasites and Worms

Understanding the common pathways of parasitic infection can help you prevent them.

• From Pets: Pets are a frequent source of parasitic infections in humans. Dogs, for example, can acquire parasites and worms from feces, soil, and contaminated food, which can then be transmitted to their owners. Studies show parasite infection from dogs is common, with up to 50% of untreated dogs being infected. (10) To prevent human infection, avoid walking barefoot in areas where pets play and always wash your hands thoroughly after handling pets, especially those that have been outdoors. (11)
• Poor Hygiene: Inadequate hygiene practices, such as not washing hands after using the bathroom, are a common cause of parasitic infections, including tapeworms. This can lead to various gastrointestinal problems, from stomach cramps to severe diarrhea. (12) Unhygienic disposal of human and animal waste also commonly contributes to parasitic worm infections, particularly when individuals preparing food touch contaminated products.
• Undercooked Food: Food, especially pork and seafood, must be thoroughly cooked to prevent parasitic worm infections. Undercooked pork is a common source of the protozoa Toxoplasma gondii, as well as Trichinella spp. and Taenia spp. worms. (13) Eating raw seafood like sushi can also cause parasitic infections if contaminated. While tapeworms and roundworms can be present in improperly frozen or cooked seafood, few people report worm infections from this source. (14)
• Contaminated Water: Various types of roundworms, tapeworms, and parasites can cause infections if you drink contaminated water. Indeed, according to one journal, there are 72 different types of parasites and worms that can cause human parasitic infections through water. (15) If you are unsure about water quality, always boil it first to kill any parasites. Also, avoid ice in drinks when in countries with an unsafe fresh water supply.

Key Symptoms of Parasitic or Worm Infections in Humans

The specific symptoms can vary depending on the type of parasite or worm infecting the intestinal system. Some infections cause general digestive upset, while others can lead to organ damage.

Common symptoms of parasitic worm infections include:

• Itching around the anus (often caused by pinworms)
• Watery or pale-colored diarrhea
• Constipation
• Abdominal cramps and pain
• Foul-smelling flatulence
• Nausea
• Unexplained or unplanned weight loss
• Nutrient deficiencies
• Fatigue and general feelings of being unwell
• Bowel obstruction
• Lung infections
• Symptoms of anemia
• Stomach ulcers

While these symptoms can also indicate a stomach bug or other underlying health conditions, if you suspect a parasite or worm infection, it is crucial to visit your doctor for a checkup.

Natural Remedies to Combat Parasites and Worms

Several natural ingredients contain compounds that help kill off tapeworms, pinworms, threadworms, and other parasites. These are known as anthelmintic remedies.

Here’s a list of some of the most effective natural remedies for treating parasite infections:

• Diatomaceous Earth: This natural substance works by physically destroying the exoskeletal system of internal parasites. Food-grade diatomaceous earth is a non-toxic antiparasitic powder that can be safely ingested.
• Garlic: A powerful natural antibiotic with significant antiparasitic properties.
• Papaya Seeds: Ground papaya seeds have shown effectiveness in destroying intestinal parasites and aiding gut cleansing.
• Pumpkin Seeds: These can also be useful in eliminating various types of worms from your intestines.
• Onions: Similar to garlic, onions contain sulfur compounds proven to kill intestinal parasites and worms.
• Parasite Cleansing Supplements: Ingredients like oregano oil, clove oil, and wormwood are important tools in the fight against internal worms and parasites.

Let's delve into how to consume and use these remedies to eliminate worms and parasites effectively.

Home Remedies for Eliminating Intestinal Parasites

Food-Grade Diatomaceous Earth (DE)

Food-grade diatomaceous earth (DE) is a non-toxic substance effective for clearing intestinal parasites and worms. While commonly used to eliminate external pests like fleas and roaches, DE can also destroy gut parasites. A study in Poultry Science reported that DE reduced internal parasitic infections in egg-laying hens. (16) The National Pesticide Information Center confirms that food-grade DE is safe for human ingestion. (17)

How to use food-grade diatomaceous earth for intestinal worm control:

1. Ensure you purchase a food-grade brand (safe for ingestion).
2. Mix 1-2 tablespoons of food-grade diatomaceous earth in an 8 oz. glass of water and drink daily. As a precaution, begin with 1 teaspoon daily and gradually increase to the recommended dosage.
3. Continue this anti-parasite drink for up to 2 weeks to thoroughly eliminate intestinal parasites.

Anti-Parasite Cleanse Diet: Foods That Kill Worms

A targeted parasite cleanse diet is crucial for naturally and swiftly eliminating roundworms, pinworms, tapeworms, and other parasites. By incorporating specific anti-parasitic foods, you can create a highly effective cleanse.

• Garlic: An anti-parasite diet should include garlic, a natural medicine particularly effective against parasites like giardia and tapeworms. Scientific research supports garlic's use, with clinical trials showing it can reduce the number and activity of flatworms, indicating its potential anthelmintic activity. (18) How to use garlic as a home remedy for human worms:
  1. Crush 2 garlic cloves and allow them to stand for 10 minutes to activate allicin, its active compound.
  2. Mix the crushed garlic in 1-2 tablespoons of raw natural yogurt to improve palatability.
  3. Consume this garlic remedy daily to help kill intestinal parasites.
  4. Continue for 2 weeks, or until symptoms of tapeworm or other parasitic worm infections have subsided. Boosting daily garlic intake can also strengthen your immune system, potentially leading to fewer infections overall.
• Papaya Seeds: Papaya seeds are powerful foods that kill parasites, helping to clear tiny worms from your small intestine. They contain compounds that parasites dislike, acting as a natural anthelmintic. Scientific research confirms their efficacy. The Journal of Medicinal Food reported that papaya seeds exhibit anti-amoebic and anthelmintic activity, with consumption leading to the elimination of 71% to 100% of parasite signs in stool. Researchers concluded that papaya seeds are a cheap, natural, and side-effect-free strategy against intestinal parasites. (19) How to use papaya seeds as a natural cure for threadworms:
  1. Grind 5 or 6 papaya seeds and drink daily in a glass of water, milk, or a smoothie to eliminate parasites.
  2. Continue the papaya remedy for 2-3 weeks to ensure all traces of intestinal parasites are gone. If fresh papaya is unavailable, organic papaya seed powder can be found in health stores or online. Use one teaspoon of powder in a glass of water daily.
• Pumpkin Seeds: Consuming pumpkin seeds is an effective way to eliminate roundworms in humans. They exert a natural anthelmintic effect on the digestive system, helping to flush out all types of intestinal worms. Scientific research highlights their effectiveness, with one study reporting that pumpkin seeds alone helped eliminate tapeworms in 75% of trial participants, confirming their utility as a natural treatment. (20) How to get rid of worms from your body with pumpkin seeds:
  1. Consume a few tablespoons of pumpkin seeds daily as part of your parasite cleanse. They can be eaten raw or sprinkled on salads.
  2. Alternatively, grind the pumpkin seeds into a powder and add to your favorite smoothie or yogurt, consuming immediately.
• Onion: Onions are another natural worm killer for humans, rapidly helping to alleviate parasite infection symptoms. A study in Parasitology Research found onion extract effective in reducing parasite numbers in animals. When ground onion was added to coconut flakes and food, signs of parasites were nearly eliminated in stool samples. (21) How to use onion as part of a parasite cleanse:
  1. Squeeze the juice from an onion to yield about 2 teaspoons.
  2. Mix the onion juice with some raw plain yogurt and consume daily.
  3. Continue this onion parasite cleanse for 2-3 weeks to ensure complete eradication of parasites and intestinal worms.

Targeted Parasite Cleanse Supplements

Several natural parasite cleanse supplements can also aid in eliminating intestinal worms.

• Clove Oil: Clove oil parasite cleanse supplements can be used to eliminate tapeworms and other parasites. The Journal of Medicinal Microbiology reported that clove oil exhibits anti-parasite activity and can kill off parasites. (22)
• Oregano Oil: Taking oregano oil supplements is an effective home remedy for cleansing your body of parasites. A 2000 study found that 600 mg of emulsified oregano oil supplements helped eradicate intestinal parasites and improved gastrointestinal symptoms. (23)
• Wormwood: Wormwood helps eliminate stomach worms due to its natural anthelmintic properties against many parasitic infections. Trends in Pharmacological Sciences reported wormwood extracts are used as a natural malaria treatment, and scientists have discovered its effectiveness against many internal parasitic infections. (24)
• Black Walnut: Tinctures and extracts of black walnut are traditionally used to kill intestinal parasites, according to the Pharmaceutical Society of Australia. (27) However, Drugs.com notes that while black walnut has many traditional uses, human trials supporting these effects are limited. (28)
• Olive Leaf Extract: This extract has shown anti-parasitic benefits in goats infected with intestinal parasites. (29) You can take olive leaf extract supplements or make your own olive leaf tea.

Do Grapefruit Seed Extract or Coconut Oil Kill Parasites?

• Grapefruit Seed Extract (GSE): Despite some claims, studies have not consistently shown that grapefruit seed extract has antiparasitic properties. The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine reported that while GSE has antibacterial properties, it didn't show definitive toxic activity against parasites. (25)
• Coconut Oil: While coconut oil is known for its antibacterial and antimicrobial benefits for many ailments, research has not demonstrated that ingesting it is an effective way to combat parasites. The Tropical Biomedicine journal reported that, after research, coconut oil was ineffective as an anthelmintic and did not kill internal parasites. (26)

When to Consult a Doctor

If you or your child exhibit symptoms of an intestinal parasitic infection, especially if you have recently traveled internationally, it is crucial to see your doctor. This is particularly important if you experience frequent bouts of diarrhea, vomiting, and unexpected weight loss. Your doctor may request stool or blood samples to diagnose parasite or worm infections of your intestines.